The Fragrance Bible

Michael Edwards released the 27th edition of his “fragrance bible” Fragrances of the World 2011 in January. The new guide lists approximately 8000 fragrances (with over 900 new additions) classified by fragrance family, and includes over 900 niche fragrances from 60 perfume houses. The reference book is used by numerous retailers to help customers find fragrances they might like based on the scent(s) they already know and enjoy.

Also included in this year’s edition: images of scent notes provided by Givaudan. The book is $195 USD.

Who would like to give this to me for my birthday?

The Bell Jar, by Sylvia Plath

   She is the portrait of a woman confined by what her society says is best. Esther Greenwood comes to a place where she begins to truly discover herself; And when her ambitions don't match up with what others tell her is acceptable, she loses hope. Thankfully, the story doesn't end there. Her journey from depression into a suicide attempt is painful to read, but her metamorphosis post attempted suicide is beautiful. Her story is tragic and raw, but she ends it fiercely as her own person and ultimately content that way.

I savored the last page today in the middle of our busy student center.

I was ready for it to end, but I wanted the last page to be just right. 

And it was.  

"There ought, I thought, to be a ritual for being born twice- patched, retreaded and approved for the road."